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200 apply for Wellington Phoenix job

The race to succeed Ricki Herbert as Wellington Phoenix coach is hotting up with almost 200 applicants putting their names forward to take over at the A-League club.

Applications close on Friday for the job which became vacant when Herbert stepped down last month after six years at the helm, with the club at the bottom of the table.

Phoenix general manager David Dome says there has been no shortage of interest in the role with applicants from Europe and North America among the almost 200 eyeing the position.

"We have received interest from some very high calibre applicants, including some who have coached at the highest levels in Europe," Dome said.

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Caretaker coach Chris Greenacre initially ruled himself out of going for the job, but the 35-year-old former striker at the club indicated he may put his name forward after the Phoenix beat Perth Glory 2-1 on Sunday.

"This role has given me the idea that a head coach is a way I would like to go," Greenacre said after the match.

"If it's not now, it's definitely in the future.

"Before, I was like 'maybe I'm a good No.2, and I can let someone else take the pressure'.

"But actually the pressure is quite good. It's been enjoyable."

Greenacre, who has a two-win, two-loss record since taking over, says he is willing to work alongside a new coach.

Former All White Duncan Oughton, part of the coaching team at MLS club Columbus Crew, is believed to have applied for the role, along with former Real Madrid striker and ex-Mexico coach Hugo Sanchez.

"While we are getting some well-known names come through, the most important thing for us is to get a head coach who understands and will execute the club's vision," Dome said.

The club, which is taking external advice on the appointment, will draw up a shortlist before interviewing candidates in April.

"We are keen to complete the process in the next six weeks so we can move on. But we are also very focused on finding the right person for the job and will take the time necessary to do this," Dome said.

The Phoenix play their final match of the season against Melbourne Victory on March 31 in Wellington.